Best Couple Activities (Part 2)

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This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop, Bergen County NJ.

Read Part 1 first.

DANCE PARTY !!!

 

What could be better cardio than dancing?  Turn off the lights and glow in the dark…pump up DJ Tiësto & have your own duo dance party with glow sticks guiding your way.

…Sweaty is sexy.

MUSICAL MUSES

 

Festival obsessed?  …from small local band shows, to seeing your favorite old-school rock band performance in NYC, to actually hopping a flight headed for Coachella in California, the ultimate concert and annual explosion of music and style…grab your golden tickets to your show of choice.

 

Aint’ got the mula for scoring those tix to huge venues?  Then just make music together in the comfort of your own home, or even rent out a studio for the day/night.  Invite others to come along if you wish (musically inclined friends who actually play instruments, if you & hubby don‘t) & delegate roles of whose starring as songwriter, musician, etc.

 Simplicity of Songs…

A simple & musical exercise: find and play for each other the music that you listened to in high school.  Describe to each other what you were like then and what you were thinking and feeling.  What did you wear and how was your hair?  What was a low point and a high point of those years?

 Silly Songs

Get paper and crayons, play some music, and draw to the music.  Exchange your drawings and reveal them to each other after the song ends.  Go ahead and laugh…

WANDERLUST…AN ADVENTURE!

Whenever you get that gut feeling that says you both need a spur-of-the-moment mini adventure, go for it.  Following your instincts could be what brings the spark back to your relationship, or brings it to new, exciting levels.  Spontaneous activities shared by couples are special, unannounced moments in time when the adrenaline is pumping and memories are made, especially because you’re living in the present moment…and when you do this, you’re truly living.

ROMANTIC RETREAT

Surprising your other half with a romantic weekend a few hours from home can really spice things up.  Try this on for size: The night before, pack both of your bags to be ready to go the following morning.  In the morning, place a note under his pillow that reads something as enticing and intriguing as you wish.  Finish it off with saying “be ready in an hour.”  This is spontaneous and exciting for your partner and can make for a romantic weekend.

 HIDEAWAY

Turn off your cell phones so that only the two of you exist.  Go anywhere you dream of…the mountains, a quiet beach, the place you first met, a spot on the map where the two of you share a high interest of traveling to…somewhere where you’ve never been before.  Experiencing it first hand together, for the first time for both of you, will make it even more so a special memory.

Continue with Part 3 and Part 4

Aleana’s bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop or call at 201-444-1500.

Best Couple Activities (Part 1)

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This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop, Bergen County NJ.

By Jaclyn Ianetti

Couple Chemistry

Cook up the chem between the two of you and keep your electric energy as a power couple pulsing.

Men connect with women when they are physically active in doing something together.  And besides the thing you’re thinking right now (get your mind out of the gutter), there are soo many more ways to bond by keeping busy and active.  Men love activities, and will instinctively feel more connected with you when engaged in an activity together. 

Keep things alive and exciting by mixing it up and breaking out of your molds into experiencing diversity in doing things you may never have even tried before. 

Speaking of cooking up some chemistry…As you flip through your latest Cosmo, (or for the health-conscious girl, Yoga Journal and/or Natural Health Magazine) on the couch at night…cut out some recipes or jot down some recipe-savvy ideas so that you and him could create a new dish together.  Cooking is an extra-sensory experience where all of your five senses are simultaneously engaged. 

 COOKING CREATIONS

 

Put baskets on your bicycles and do your grocery shopping by cycling together to the food store of your choice.  Refer to the recipes you wish to make and stock up on all ingredients needed.

Cooking can take you many places…

*Get fresh ingredients and make smoothies and juices you can make in the morning together.  Better yet, plant your own organic fruit & veggie garden together and pick your daily dose of nutrient-rich foods whenever you feel like it. 

*Make lunch and head out for a picnic for two. 

*Candlelit dinner at home…yogi-bohemian style on the floor next to a fireplace, or fancy with 5-course meal on the dining room table. 

EXERCISE

Join a gym, do-at-home exercises, or go mountain-climbing.  A trail through a beautiful reservation in an upscale town.  Whether you’re walking, running, hiking, cycling…you’ll be connecting as a couple through nature and its’ scenery of wonder.

Eat some suggestive snacks.  Munch on aphrodisiacs during your drive home post-workout.  Portable foods reputed to get you in the mood include almonds, peaches, and ginger (if you don’t like raw ginger, try it candied).

Read Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4

 Aleana’s bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop or call at 201-444-1500.

Fall/Winter Bridal Fashion Trends (Part 2)

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Read first Part 1

Sleeves, especially ¾

  • A beautiful way sleeves have made their mark on the runway this season is with lace. Fitted bodices and lace sleeves offer a stunning, classic look.
  • This sleeve movement is most likely inspired by the amazing gown worn by Kate Middleton. Since then, designers have found plenty of ways to incorporate sleeves into gowns to relieve the industry of the same necklines we’ve seen for years.
  • In addition to sleeves, traditional necklines are being outshined by off the shoulder styles.

Off the Shoulderv  Off the shoulder dresses bring a lot of attention to your neck, creating a very sexy and romantic effect.

  • This style is good for those who wish to conceal their arms, but don’t want long sleeves. The sleeves fall just under the shoulder hiding the perfect amount of arm.
  • The openness of the neck and chest may frighten some, but don’t fret, this is a very appropriate, classy style.

Lace

 

  • Lace has been a bridal staple for decades. It instantly adds glamour and elegance to any garment this is why brides tend to love it.
  • There are many different types of laces with the most popular being Guipure, Alencon, and Chantilly. (Please read our article to get familiar with different types of laces)
  • These laces all have beautiful designs that complement all dress types. The lace can be placed anywhere throughout the dress and will still look stunning.
  • Some dresses this season are made up completely of lace. This seems to be an emerging trend that hopefully will stick around for a while. All-lace gowns are stunning in an A-line or Trumpet silhouette.

Fall/Winter 2013, is a season for reinventing the past in a flirty and romantic way. The 80’s were all about off the shoulder gowns and long slender sleeves. Designers have removed the obvious mistakes in those gowns and have made bridal for this season one of the best so far.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, Bergen County, NJ. Bridal shop that will help you design the dress of your dreams. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop or call us at 201-444-1500

 

Fall/Winter Bridal Fashion Trends (Part 1)

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This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, your bridal shop in Paramus Bergen County NJ.

Never listen to someone who says all bridal gowns are the same. Yes, silhouettes may be the same, but all gowns have unique qualities and differences and those with embellishments are even more special. Throughout the seasons, the silhouettes remain the same for the most part. What does change is everything else involved in the gown construction and embellishment. Ball gown, mermaid, trumpet, and A-line bridal dresses styles are constantly being reinvented to compliment current fashion trends and of course the weather for each season.

Here are some highlights of Fall/Winter Bridal Collections from the most recent runway. The beautiful fashionable details seem to be adaptable to all silhouettes making these trends perfect for the fashion savvy bride with any body shape and bridal gown silhouette preference.

 

Popular trends in this season are:

Illusion mesh

  •  Illusion mesh is basically a very thin netted fabric, mostly in a nude color, meant to satisfy some more risky styles.
  • Illusion mesh has been used to create the open back look that remains just as popular as it was last season.
  • The great part about illusion mesh is that it deceives the eye. For example, when used on the back, the dress appears to be open back, yet there is a fabric holding the dress together.
  • This mesh is then ornamented with delicate embroideries making it look as if the designs are place directly on your back. The appearance is magnificent.
  • This mesh has also been featured on the runway as a way to keep strapless and more summery styles alive while being winter appropriate.
  • Long sleeves made of illusion mesh give you that extra layer to keep you warm, without compromising style.

Open Back

 

  • Open back anything has been popular for the past few seasons. In bridal, open back is highly requested by brides.
  • Not many brides are comfortable showing off their busts. After all, most ceremonies are in front of a religious leader.
  • Open back is the perfect way to achieve that sexy yet appropriate style all brides crave. Open back comes in many different ways.
  • The general idea is to obviously show off the back which can be done by having a deep “V”, a cowl neck back, a deep scoop back and, for those still wanting to keep covered, an illusion mesh back.
Continue reading Part 2 .

Please schedule your appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop or call us at 201-444-1500.

Destined to be your Destination…(Part 3)

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Your Destination Wedding

Read first Part 1 and Part 2.

…California Napa Valley…for the “wedded wino”…just joking.  Who doesn’t love vino?

 

The Mediterranean:  Exotic European countries and castles…Calling all princesses!

— Europe is a destination full of history, romance and lush landscape, which will make your wedding day truly magical.

 

Viva…Las Vegas!

Spur of the moment road trips or red-eyes that unfold into craps games lasting deep into the night, accompanied by all-you-can-eat buffets amidst flashing lights and eager participants…the Vegas impression of a true Vegas Vacation.  If this sounds appealing to you, why not gather the gang and head out for Vegas wedding?

 

Las Vegas is still the place for bright lights and big dreams, but the city that was once that drive-through wedding capital and a refuge for forgotten weekends has also transitioned into a luxury hot spot.  In this oasis of upscale, full-blown destination weddings, luxe honeymoons have become more of he rule than the exception, and nowhere is the promise of both better realized than at The Palazzo and The Venetian.  Check out both of these quality hotels for your wedding ceremony, reception, and honeymoon.

 

***Travel Tip for Packing: Carry some lavender essential oil in your toiletry travel bag…Lavender has been associated with sensuality throughout history.  It’s been said Cleopatra used lavender to seduce Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony.  In the modern day, lavender is a customary tradition to put under the pillow of newlyweds to encourage passion.

 ** A Gown-to-Go **

The destination wedding has one main idea in mind…you go there to experience.  And while you’re experiencing, it’s usually ideal to keep the theme of that area or country as a part of your wedding.

 

(See “Theme Weddings” for more detailed ideas)

Theme Weddings)

And keep in mind that you will want to have the appropriate wedding gown to go with the theme of your destination.  For instance, you may have to avoid long trains and other types of fabrics for a beach wedding if you plan on walking on and through sand to meet your future hubby at the alter nearer to the water…which means it may be windy, and you will have to have the appropriate hairstyle to avoid hair mishaps…and mess-ups, as well.  Make the best choice of fashion according to your surroundings.

 

DESIGN YOUR DESTINATION

If you and your man are rock stars, book it at a fancy Hard Rock Hotel somewhere at a location that you both love.  One of the hottest, top-selling resorts for 2013 is the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

The point is to get creative as a couple with designing your destination and molding it to fit your unique personalities and style.

Enchanting and beautiful, a destination wedding event is suitable for all ages and offers a different twist on the usual wedding affair…that nobody

will ever forget.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County.

Destined to be your Destination…(Part 2)

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Your Destination Wedding

Read first Part 1

But!!!…

Don’t Let

Downfalls

Discourage your

Destiny to your

Dreams !!!

 

DESTINED FOR YOUR DREAMS

Let’s say your torn between your dreams and wishes with reality for what you envisioned for your wedding….and expenses get in the way.  No big deal.  YOU CAN STILL HAVE IT ALL!!!…

 

You can get hitched elsewhere in the world and have an intimate reception party afterward at that location…and once you return home, you can have a date planned (whether it’s right after you return, or a while after) and have that huge reception party with all of your family, friends, etc. that you always imagined sharing your special day.

************************************************

Brainstorm beaches and dream up a destination that fits your fantasy…

 Hawaii…

….Disney Destination Wedding (Florida or California)

Cruise ships…

All Inclusive Island hot spots: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Aruba, Bermuda, Bahamas, Mexico, Costa Rica…you get the picture.

—Nestle in the Caribbean and unwind at a couple’s resort with honeymoon suites filled with heart shaped tubs, champagne, and rose petals patterned throughout the floors in trails leading to the bed…(insert your own imagination here). 

**2013 Hot Spots:  Mexico is said to be the top selling destination for 2013.  Other up-and-coming destinations couples are getting excited about are the Turks and Caicos island, which boasts beautiful beaches (of which are uncrowded…a huge perk!), fabulous family-friendly dining and a range of resorts, such as the Beaches: Turks and Caicos Resort.  Another hot spot is Aruba…with its’ powdery, white sands, sparkling turquoise waters and breezy palms.  Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is another destination that tops the lists for 2013.  The city combines beautiful old colonial buildings and architecture with new hotels, resorts and shopping centers.

Resorts and Hidden Gems*:  Top-selling resorts for 2013 include: El Dorado Royale in the Riviera Maya, Mexico; Excellence Riviera Cancun in Riviera Maya, Mexico; Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit in Puerto Vallarta/Riviera Nayarit, Mexico; Iberostar Rose Hall Suites in Montego Bay, Jamaica; Sandals Emerald Bay in Great Exuma, Bahamas; Isla Mujeres Palace in Isla Mujeres/Cancun; and the Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa in Tahiti.  *

Resorts that are chic, unique, private and off the beaten path are all the rage for 2013.  All of these properties offer intimacy, privacy, secluded beaches and romance, perfect for weddings and honeymoons.  They’re all-inclusive and offer tremendous value, exceptional service and a variety of fantastic wedding packages.

****(Source: http://www.weddingwire.com/destination-weddings/ideas/whats-hot-for-2013).

Read Part 3

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County.

 

Understand bridal silk fabrics (Part 2)

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Read first Part 1

Silk taffeta is a flat fabric and has a distinctive silken rustle. It barely wrinkles and had great recovery. Taffeta is similar to satin as it holds shape very well and it hugs the body nicely. However, taffeta is more lightweight. This fabric is not intended for gown where a flowing effect is desired due to its stiffness making it ideal for “poufy” gowns such as ball gown style. Taffeta has a natural shine and is great for embroidering which together, produces exceptional results.

 

 

One of the most elegant silk fabrics is silk charmeuse. The stunning shine in which it has is breathtaking. It has been said that “silk charmeuse fabric is the textile equivalent of dipping ones’ hand into a running river: smooth, sensual, and free-flowing.” The stunning flow is a result of the fabric being cut on a bias during production. Because charmeuse is very lightweight, it doesn’t hold shape. This along with its intense shine doesn’t make charmeuse the ideal fabric for anyone looking to mask bodily imperfections; the shine, in fact would highlight them. However, there is no denying the beauty in this silk. “If there were competitions among fabrics, silk charmeuse would win the gold medal in every event.”

 

Silk 4 ply woven crepe fabric is a premium silk. This type of silk is usually used along with a different contrasting fabric, such as lace, to make it pop. This silk has a smooth, flat surface yet is a bit textured.  As far as weight goes, 4ply silk crepe is in the middle. It isn’t exactly light and sheer like chiffon, but it isn’t as heavy as silk satin. This silk still retains drape and shine to an extent while giving garments a fuller look and holding shape. 4ply silk is ideal for “a” line gowns.

 

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County.

Understand bridal silk fabrics (Part 1)

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Silk is a natural fiber that, when spun the right way, can produce some of the most amazing fabrications. Silks are produced by many different kinds of insects. However, it is from moth caterpillars that silk, suitable for manufacturing textiles, comes from. Silk is one of the most treasured types of fabrics available. Silk, without a doubt, delivers a sense of luxury and sophistication. There are many types of silks out on the market. However, there are five in particular that Bridal couture would not be the same without.

 

Silk satin is a heavier weight silk, yet since silk is natural, you skin can breathe as air and moisture passes through the fabric. Silk satin also has a cooling effect. The fabric doesn’t have the flow that other silks have; therefore it holds shape very well and does not slip. When silk satin is used for the bodice of a gown, it hugs the body beautifully making it very slimming. This fabric is usually used for ball gown style gowns as its natural shine offers a very elegant, royal look making the wearer an instant princess for the day.

 

Silk chiffon is a beautiful silk commonly used as an overlay rather than the main fabric due to how sheer it is. Chiffon has just the right amount of drape giving an elegant, floating appearance to any gown it is used on. This type of silk’s fine absorbency makes it very comfortable for wear in warm weather, yet its low conductivity keeps warm air close to your skin making it the perfect fabric for all seasons. Iridescent silk chiffon is the ideal bridal fabric. As one walks, the chiffon catches the light instantly making you the center of attention; exactly what every bride wants on her special day.

For more information please read Part 2

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County.

 

 

BRIDAL SHOP NEAR FAIR LAWN BERGEN COUNTY NJ

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Aleana’s Bridal is your bridal shop near Fair Lawn, Bergen County, NJ.

Every woman lives to experience that special bridal moment once in her life time. Wedding gown is a symbol of your unique self; a symbol of self-expression that makes a powerful statement in the physical world about your inner nature.

Aleana’s Bridal invites you to create your custom gown or choose a dress at our exclusive shop located in the heart of Paramus.

We are proud to offer our Fairlawn clients our “Made in America” collection. In our store you can find a variety of our novelty silk fabrics, French laces, unique embellishments, exclusive hand embroideries and handmade silk flowers.

Every garment in our great collection of bridal dresses and sets can be modified to enhance a beauty of any body type. We keep our clients up to date on the latest launches and trends.

Aleana’s Bridal offers to Fair Lawn customers a more than convenient production time frame, which is often unheard of in the fashion industry: You can pick up your dress in 3 months, without paying any “rush” order fees! Personal customer service is readily available and even possible during the wedding day.

We also exhibit a wide selection of European lingerie and lounge wear that can only be found at our boutique as well as custom gowns for the entire bridal party including Mother of the Bride.

Book your appointment today and we will guide you to create a dress that is the essence of you. Each appointment will be scheduled for a full hour and half to ensure that you get the attention you need.

Please call at 201-444-1500 or book your appointment on line at www.aleanasbridal.com.

Destined to be your Destination… (Part 1)

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Destination Weddings

By Jaclyn Ianetti

Destination Wedding: Any wedding in which the engaged couple and/or a majority of their guests travel to attend the ceremony.

 

A certain and sure way to differentiate yourself in the quest for a perfect wedding is to…close your eyes…pick a spot on the map…and pack up your bags.

 

Yup, pack them up and jaunt out of town.  If you’re destined to have a destination wedding, the travel bug bites you often as you love to explore different cultures and adventure off into exotic backdrops.  So imagine exchanging vows in a striking setting.  Tempting…isn’t it?

 

Whether you plan on going for just a few days or a whole month long is completely up to you and your fiancé.  Do you want a big reception or one with more of an intimate vibe?  These are important topics to be considered.

 

…What makes the destination wedding so wonderful is that you can even stay for your honeymoon, while the rest of your guests travel back home.  A 2-in-1 package deal!  Wedding and honeymoon all in one spot!

 

Downside to Destination

Planning a destination wedding is a huge undertaking that can contain both pros and cons, whether you’re having an intimate affair or an elaborate gala fit for a queen.  Expenses are what will discourage many couples from pursuing a destination wedding.

One of the downfalls of a destination wedding is that it may be more affordable to the couple, but more expensive to family and friends.  Can all of the people whom you wish to share your wedding day with you…family and dear loved ones…afford to take off work, and still pay the price of airfare, hotel rooms, etc.?  These people who you really wish to be at your wedding…those closest to your heart…might not be able to attend due to price limitations and financial boundaries.

 

It could also be a challenge to control all aspects such as flowers, music, photography, etc. when you’re out of your zone in a different part of the world.

 But!!!…

Read Part 2 and Part 3

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County. Bridal shop that will help you design the dress of your dreams. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleanasbridal.com.